If you leave the state or switch banks, you may want to close your old bank account. To close an account, you must first contact your bank. Your account can be closed using a couple of methods. If your bank account has a negative balance, it cannot be closed. If the account you wish to close is a checking account, make sure that all the checks you have written have cleared the bank. If there are pending transactions, they will not be processed.
Step
Cancel all pending transactions. Call any bank or company you deal with that has automatic payments set up to come out of your bank account. Stop all payroll, Social Security, pension and interest payments that go directly into your account. Review your check ledger to make sure all checks have cleared. If you wish to cancel transactions, make sure you give the companies enough time to stop the transactions from processing.
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Step
Visit your bank and request that the account be closed. Present your picture identification to the branch manager. If you speak with a teller she will refer you to a sales associate or the branch manager. Put your request in writing and sign the letter. The manager will review your account to confirm the status of any payments and deposits. If the account is owned jointly, only one account holder needs to be present. You can also close your account by sending a letter to your bank.
Step
Receive your receipt and withdrawal slip. Any money in the account will be turned over to you in the form of a check or cash. Make sure you sign the slip and any other paperwork. If you wish to open another bank account, you can do so right away.
